According to Autocar UK, Zetsche already owns five per cent of Aston Martin, but he is open to the idea of expanding the relationship between the two companies to future projects.

“This is a fantastic brand and we’re willing to support its further development,” Zetsche told Autocar UK.

Currently, the two automakers are working to develop a new V8 engine. Although most of the details are still a secret, Aston Martin will specify the requirements of the engine while Mercedes will work on ECU programming, testing and manufacturing.

It is rumoured the engine will likely be a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, pumping out roughly 480 horsepower. Aston Martin will fit the engine into the next-generation Vantage, while it could appear in the upcoming C 63 AMG on the Mercedes side.

If Zetsche’s word holds true, the agreement could be extended to include the sharing of electric components and platform sharing, opening up the possibility of an Aston Martin Lagonda SUV based on the underpinnings of the Mercedes GL.